Hot, hazy skies return as week's heat nears peak Wednesday

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Summer heat is on the rise again across western Oregon and southwest Washington Wednesday.

Temperatures will climb into the low to mid 90s along the Willamette Valley Wednesday. In addition to the high heat, wildfire smoke will return to the region. Hazy skies will likely impact much of Portland-Vancouver metro area Wednesday and continue over to Thursday. That's when some of the hottest temperatures of the week are expected to be felt.

The high heat and poor air quality will impact those working outside the most. Take frequent breaks indoor and avoid prolonged amounts of time outside during poor air quality.

The lack of rainfall continues to increase despite a cooling trend taking shape over the weekend and for the start of next week. High heat and smoky conditions will continue to keep Oregon's wildfire threat elevated through the end of the week.

Mostly sunny skies will cut through the wildfire smoke through the end of the week. Dry and clearer conditions are expected by the start of next week. That comes as temperatures cool into the low 70s.